Wheezing is a common occurrence that impacts people of all ages. Wheezing, which typically happens when a breath is being exhaled, is the result of blocked or narrowed airways. The range of causes for wheezing are varied and include tumors, asthma, bronchitis, heart failure, allergic reactions, lung cancer, smoking and pneumonia, according to MayoClinic.com.
High-Pitched Sound
Wheezing makes a very noticeable high-pitched sound that can get quite loud, notes MayoClinic.com. The noise of wheezing sometimes sounds like a whistle. A wheeze can be ongoing or may occur sporadically. Wheezing can be related to environmental factors or stress.
Inability to Breathe Deeply
Wheezing can cause difficulty with getting a full breath. This can become a severe health issue. It can require immediate medical care, especially if the skin starts to become blue while the wheezing is occurring, notes MayoClinic.com.
Swollen Airways
Wheezing can be linked to an anaphylactic reaction to an insect bite or an allergic reaction to a medication, notes MayoClinic.com. This reaction causes the airways to swell and severely limits or blocks the amount of air that can pass along the airway. If wheezing suddenly starts after starting a new medication or being bitten by a bug, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention.
Wheezing Related to Food Allergies
Wheezing can appear suddenly after eating certain foods, notes MedlinePlus. This sort of wheezing can occur just once or on an ongoing basis if the food that causes the wheezing is not identified and eliminated from the diet. Any very sudden or severe wheezing, should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Wheezing Linked to Asthma
Wheezing often starts due to asthma, reports MedlinePlus. An asthma attack may cause the lining of the throat to swell, which impacts breathing and can cause wheezing. Wheezing linked to an asthma attack can last just for a few minutes or for several days. When asthma leads to wheezing, it's necessary to consult a doctor.
